Essential oils have been used since ancient civilization as the discovery of the medicinal value derived from certain herbs became widespread. Easy to use and extremely effective to treat various ailments, essential oils such as anise oil are often found in most medicinal cabinets today.
What Is Anise Oil?
Part of the carrot family, Anise is an herb that originated in Asia, but has now become extremely popular in the Mediterranean nations and is also produced in Russia, France and Spain.
While the plant grows delicate, tiny star-shaped white flowers, the seeds inside the flowers are widely used in alcoholic drinks and cooking spices — and they are known for their medicinal value.
The essential oil is derived from anise seeds through steam distillation and has an aroma that resembles licorice.
Uses of Anise Oil:
Owing to its anti-hysteric, antiseptic, carminative, stimulant, anti-rheumatic and anti-epileptic properties, anise essential oil is widely used to treat many disorders.
Anise oil is widely used for its therapeutic properties and has other uses listed below:
- As a flavoring agent in soups, salads, foods and beverages
- Food processing agents, especially in processed meats like pizzas and sausages
- Natural lice treatment
- In toothpaste and mouthwash to maintain oral hygiene
- In fragrances, detergents, soaps and lotions
Benefits of Anise Oil:
With therapeutic and flavoring properties, anise oil should be on your list of go-to essential oils as it can be easily used in many home remedies.
The added benefits of anise oil are listed below:
1. Aids in digestion
Anise seeds have been used traditionally for digestive-related issues and now the oil, derived from the seeds, is used for the medicinal value it provides. A few drops of anise oil in warm water aids digestion, cures constipation and reduces flatulence.
2. Acts as a decongestant
Anise oil is known to be very effective in clearing congestion in the respiratory tract and lungs and helps to treat respiratory infections like bronchitis and asthma. The oil also loosens up the mucus deposited in the respiratory tracts to provide relief from a cold and cough.
3. Reduces stress and anxiety
Anise oil is well known for its sedative properties. Due to its numbing and narcotic effect, anise oil reduces anxiety, stress and depression. Using anise oil can induce relaxation and promote sleep as it also helps cure insomnia.
4. Effective insecticide
Anise oil is a common ingredient in sprays, vaporizers and fumigants as the oil is toxic to animals and is effective in keeping insects away.
Apart from being an insecticide, it is also a good vermifuge as it helps in killing worms found in intestines, making it a very beneficial treatment for children suffering from intestinal problems.
5. Acts as an antiseptic
Anise oil is also rich in antiseptic properties that help treat wounds and promote quick healing. Additionally, it also provides the skin with a protective layer against sepsis and secondary infections.
6. Treats joint disorders
Rich in anti-inflammatory and anti-rheumatic properties, anise oil is an effective healing agent for arthritis as it stimulates blood circulation around the affected area and reduces the sensation of pain.
7. Acts as an anti-spasmodic agent
The anti-spasmodic properties present in the essential oil helps to treat muscle cramps and muscle aches as it relaxes the contractions and gives relief from spasms. The oil also treats convulsions and nerve afflictions in the body.
8. Helps treat epilepsy
As anise oil contains sedative and narcotic properties, it is commonly used to treat hysteric and epileptic attacks. The oil slows down the nervous system response, respiratory rate and brings a calming effect on the body instead.
Side Effects of Anise Oil
Anise oil is completely safe to use in the recommended dose and has no known side effects, however, it contains narcotic properties that slow down brain function and should not be consumed in high doses.
Individuals who are allergic to carrots, celery and pollen must avoid using anise oil and when being used internally for medical purposes, it should be done with the advice of your health practitioner.
